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Checkerspot, founded in 2016, uses precision fermentation to develop high-performance fats and oils for food, nutrition, and industrial applications. The company seeks a Scientist/Engineer to join the Process Development team with hands-on expertise in both fermentation and downstream processing, from bench through pilot scale.
The role is split across three primary areas: Fermentation Development (50%), Downstream Processing (40%), and Scale-Up/Technology Transfer (10%). In fermentation, you will independently design and execute experiments including bioreactor operations, seed scale-up, strain performance assessment, troubleshooting, and statistical design of experiments to optimize titer, rate, yield, and robustness. You'll partner with the Strain Engineering team to translate strain performance into process improvements.
For downstream processing, you will develop and optimize unit operations such as centrifugation, mechanical and aqueous extraction, cell disruption, and drying methods. You'll contribute to oil recovery and refining processes—mechanical press, refining, bleaching, deodorization—and ensure alignment with product quality specifications. You'll define process parameters, in-process controls, acceptance criteria, and author SOPs and batch records.
Scale-up and technology transfer responsibilities include supporting process transfer to internal pilot operations and external CDMOs, maintaining high-quality documentation in Benchling, and communicating results to technical teams and leadership. You will mentor Research Associates, coordinate cross-functional projects, and work closely with Molecular Biology, Analytical, and Applications teams. Safety culture and adherence to SOPs are critical.
Required qualifications: B.S. in Bioprocess/Chemical Engineering, Microbiology, Biology, or related field with 6–10 years of experience; M.S. with 2–6 years; or Ph.D. with 0–4 years. Demonstrated hands-on experience with lab- and pilot-scale bioreactors, downstream processing (centrifugation, drying, mechanical press, extraction, or oil refining), data analysis, troubleshooting, and process scaling to manufacturing or CDMO partners. Excellent communication, project management, and teamwork skills required. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and work flexible schedules including off-hours and weekends. U.S. work authorization required; visa sponsorship unavailable.
Preferred: experience with algal, cyanobacterial, fungal, or oleaginous microbial production systems.
